Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand, becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist. When this takes place it can cause frequent burning, tingling, or itching numbness in the palm of the hand and fingers. Treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome should begin immediately. Of course, non-surgical treatments such as resting the affected hand(s), applying cool packs to reduce swelling, medication, exercise, and any other alternate therapies are recommended before the option of surgery is explored. Carpal tunnel release is one of the most common surgical procedures in the United States to date. It is typically performed under local anesthesia and does not require an overnight stay. There are two forms of carpal tunnel surgery, open and endoscopic. Endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery is definitely the less invasive of the two only requiring two ½ inch incisions to the open carpal tunnels 2 inch incision. This allows for minimal scarring and tenderness, if any, less post-operative pain, and a quicker recovery.